Goa, April 18 -- Team Herald

sports@herald-goa.com

MAPUSA: Goa were held by Odisha to a goalless draw in their opening match of the Swami Vivekananda National U-20 Football Championship played at Chhattisgarh, on Friday.

Goa had better of ball possession and strikes at the rival goal but failed to find the back of the nylons.

Preston Castanha, Garrison Fernandes and Nakul Gawas missed open sitters.

In the 83rd minute, Odisha defender Nirmal Oram was sent off for double caution for rough play.

Goa will now take on Assam in their next group match.

Speaking to O Heraldo, Goa's Head Coach Umer Mutawalli said, "My boys played well as one unit though being our first match, the energy level and mood in the team was also great. We are defi...